There will be a push from within the Aston Villa squad to make it into Champions League. While for many supporters, the focus is on winning Europa League in order to win a trophy, that is also practically one of the avenues of re-entering into Europe's biggest club stage.
After having experienced what it is like to play in CL, the Villans will want to be a part of that atmosphere again, competing against the best in Europe.
UEL is still a worthy competition. It has to be acknowledged that there are two entirely different levels of play from top to bottom within the two tournaments, however. The prestige of being in Champions League, furthermore, is that much greater and known with the lineage of some of the past greats who have willed their respective sides into the deep stages of the competition.
Think of it like this: few, if any, grew up actively waking up, excited for the day's Europa League slate, unless their favorite club happened to be participating that year.
Champions League, on the other hand, is what anyone who watches the sport would look forward to, regardless of who was involved, particularly during the latter stages.
This is known among the Villa players. They now have something of a difficult task ahead. There is the need to keep focus on the Premier League and continue to do well there. At the same time, they know that there is a good chance of winning Europa League. There are still some quality teams in UEL as well. Winning a trophy in Europe this season is far from a guarantee.
Regardless, Villa is at the point where they need to be able to maintain a multi-faceted approach regarding domestic play and during other competitions.
Big upcoming test for Aston Villa
This is why the 2025-2026 season serves as something of an important test. Last year, Villa were able to go far in the FA Cup and Champions League while pushing for the final CL spot in the Premier League. In order for the club to continue to be viewed as a team that is looking to upend the system, this needs to continue.
It is also worth mentioning, anything can happen during tournament play. A bad day, or a particularly inspired showing from a side, will leave Villa potentially trophyless from Europa League. Because of this, ensuring Champions League through the Premier League standings is hugely important.